DataCenters – Environmental Concerns Raised Over Mega Data Hub Approvals
DataCenters – The Human Rights Forum (HRF) has called for the immediate suspension of environmental permissions granted on April 18, 2026, to three large-scale data centre projects proposed in Andhra Pradesh. These projects are planned at Tarluvada in Visakhapatnam district and Rambilli in Anakapalli district, and are associated with the Google-Adani partnership.
Concerns Over Project Classification and Approval Process
In its statement, the forum questioned the manner in which the projects were evaluated and approved. According to HRF, the developments were initially introduced as a single large facility but were later divided into separate proposals during the clearance process. This division, it argued, allowed the projects to be assessed under Category B2 of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006.
Projects falling under this category typically relate to construction activities and do not require a detailed environmental impact study or public consultation. HRF expressed concern that such classification may have bypassed a more comprehensive evaluation process, which would have been necessary given the scale of the developments.
Scale of Infrastructure and Resource Demand
The forum highlighted the significant energy and infrastructure demands associated with the proposed data centres. Combined, the facilities are expected to require approximately 1,626 megawatts of grid power. Additionally, plans include the installation of around 354 diesel generators with a total capacity nearing 971.5 megawatts.
Another point raised was the storage of high-speed diesel, estimated at 2,520 kilolitres across the sites. HRF indicated that such large-scale fuel storage and energy consumption could have considerable environmental implications, particularly in terms of emissions and resource management.
Limited Employment Opportunities Questioned
Beyond environmental concerns, HRF also pointed to the relatively low employment potential of the projects. Official estimates suggest that the Rambilli facility may generate around 650 jobs, while the Tarluvada site is expected to create approximately 575 positions.
The organisation argued that these figures appear modest when compared to the extensive land use, water consumption, and energy requirements involved. It emphasized the need for a balanced assessment that considers both economic benefits and environmental costs.
Call for Review and Greater Transparency
HRF has urged authorities to revisit the approvals and ensure that all regulatory procedures are followed with transparency. The group stressed the importance of conducting thorough environmental assessments for projects of this magnitude, along with involving local communities in the decision-making process.
It also called for stricter adherence to environmental safeguards, noting that large infrastructure developments must align with sustainable practices and long-term ecological considerations.
Broader Implications for Industrial Development
The issue has drawn attention to the broader challenges of managing rapid industrial growth while maintaining environmental standards. As demand for data infrastructure continues to rise, particularly with the expansion of digital services, the need for robust regulatory frameworks becomes increasingly important.
Experts suggest that while data centres are critical for economic and technological progress, their environmental footprint must be carefully managed. This includes addressing energy consumption, emissions, and land use in a responsible manner.
The developments in Andhra Pradesh are likely to remain under scrutiny as stakeholders continue to debate the balance between investment, employment, and environmental protection.